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Protests have erupted outside the Poughkeepsie Social Security Administration office, which is set to close permanently at the end of July. The rally, organized by the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) Local 3343, drew dozens of participants on Tuesday (March 4) amid concerns about the site's future. The office, originally closed for renovations in January, was listed on the Department of Government Efficiency's site, signaling a potential permanent closure.
Chris Delaney, president of AFGE Local 3343, emphasized the community's need for the office, stating, "This office wants to serve the people of this community, and it needs to be here." He noted that the small contact station providing in-person services is limited in capacity due to ongoing construction. According to Poughkeepsie Journal, Delaney and others argue that now is the time to expand Social Security offices, not close them.
The closure is part of a broader trend, with nearby offices in Kingston and Newburgh also shutting down in recent years. Dan Torres, deputy chief of staff for U.S. Rep. Pat Ryan, criticized the decision, highlighting the impact on local residents who now must travel to Middletown, about an hour away, for services. Dutchess County Comptroller Dan Aymar-Blair warned that changes to federal funding could have a significant economic impact on the county, which relies on $1.9 billion in federal funding for services like Social Security.
According to HVNY, Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger called the closure a "terrible decision" affecting seniors, the disabled, wounded veterans, and surviving spouses and children. The community plans to hold vigils at the Social Security Office on Friday evenings from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. to protest the closure.
The Dutchess County Office for the Aging is offering assistance to seniors navigating the Social Security phone system or online applications. The office is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Anyone needing help can call 845-486-2555 or use the toll-free number 866-486-2555.